hogback

Sharp-crested geological formation

A hogback is a narrow ridge with steep slopes on both sides, formed when a layer of hard rock resists erosion while softer surrounding rock wears away.

The name comes from its resemblance to a hog's arched back.

Hogbacks appear in areas where tilted rock layers have been exposed by erosion: We hiked along the hogback overlooking the valley.

landform

ridge

Narrow raised strip

crestHighest point or tuft
escarpmentSteep slope dividing elevations
mesaFlat-topped steep-sided elevation

cuesta · butte · spur · promontory · cliff · bluff · plateau · knoll · tor · pinnacle

topography

steep

Rising at sharp angle

narrowOf small width
ridgeNarrow raised strip
slopeAngled terrain or steepness

gradient · incline · ascent · elevation · crest · symmetrical · knife-edge · sharp · rugged · profile

geology

anticline

Arched rock formation

synclineDownward-bowing rock formation
strataParallel geological layers
sedimentaryFormed from deposited material

fold · outcrop · sandstone · limestone · shale · tectonics · uplift · fault · bedrock · monocline

erosion

weathering

Atmospheric breakdown of materials

differentialRelative difference between things
resistantWithstanding external forces
sedimentParticles settling in liquid

degradation · scouring · runoff · abrasion · detritus · gully · ravine · washout · streambank · siltation

hogback

ridge

steep

anticline

weathering

hogback

Opposites

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